HIST 143

Latin America Since Independence

John Chasteen

History 143, LATIN AMERICA SINCE INDEPENDENCE, provides an overview of Latin American history from 1810 to the present. It is geared for students with no prior background in the subject. Latin America is divided into over twenty nations, similar in many ways, but each distinct as well, presenting complex variations on shared themes. The course will trace these themes for the region as a whole rather than try to provide individual national histories. The emphasis is more on issues, concepts, and interpretive skills than on names and dates. Political and economic trends will provide a lead story to follow, but we will also explore society and culture. In addition to lectures, students will meet weekly in small-group “recitation” (really discussion) sections. The discussion sections provide a more relaxed setting within the course for you to ask questions and speak your mind. Each discussion will focus on a particular reading assignment. On two occasions, five-page historical essays will be due. On the other occasions, a Blackboard discussion exercise will help students prepare to meet with the group. There will also be the usual midterm and a final exam. The professor pledges to make it all interesting. Welcome!